Portsmouth have signed experienced Finnish goalkeeper Antti Niemi on a free transfer. The 37 year old had retired from professional football in September 2008 due to a wrist injury, but has now been persuaded to come out of retirement by the South Coast club. Niemi has put pen to paper a one year deal at Fratton Park.
Niemi enjoyed a hugely successful stay with Portsmouth’s bitter rivals Southampton between 2002 and 2006. He has also played for FC Copenhagen, Rangers, HJK, Hearts and Fulham.
The Oulu born shot stopper is expected to provide cover for David James. With his arrival, Asmir Begovic and Jamie Ashdown could be allowed to go out on loan and gain some valuable first team experience. However some reports are suggesting that Pompey boss Paul Hart will install Niemi as Pompey’s No.1, and sell David James to Sunderland.
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